Vehicle Class:
Executive/Luxury Sedan
Target Audience:
Affluent individuals seeking performance and refinement in a sedan.
Key Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz W124 E-Class, Audi 100, Lexus LS 400 (introduced later but relevant context).
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned BMW handling and driver engagement, often praised for its chassis tuning.
Powertrain Refinement:
Smooth and torquey inline-six engine, characteristic of BMW's engineering.
Build Quality:
High-quality materials and solid construction, indicative of German engineering.
Manual Utility:
Essential for maintaining the longevity and performance of a classic BMW.
Engine Mechanical:
Complete overhaul and repair of M30B28 engine, including cylinder head, block, crankshaft, pistons, connecting rods, timing components.
Engine Management:
Bosch Motronic fuel injection and ignition system diagnostics, troubleshooting, and component replacement.
Transmission:
Repair and overhaul of manual (Getrag 260) and automatic (ZF 4HP22) transmissions, including clutch, torque converter, and gear shift mechanisms.
Drivetrain:
Rear-wheel drive system, including driveshaft, differential, and axle components.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension components, including struts, shocks, control arms, bushings, and anti-roll bars. Wheel alignment specifications.
Steering:
Power steering system, including pump, lines, steering rack, and components. Troubleshooting leaks and performance issues.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system, including master cylinder, brake booster, calipers, pads, rotors, lines, and ABS system diagnostics (if equipped).
Electrical System:
Complete wiring diagrams, fuse box layouts, starter, alternator, battery, lighting, gauges, and accessory circuits.
Climate Control:
HVAC system operation, diagnostics, refrigerant charging, blower motor, and heater core service.
Body And Interior:
Body panel repair, door mechanisms, window regulators, seat adjustments, trim removal and installation.
Scheduled Maintenance:
Detailed oil change intervals, filter replacements, fluid checks and changes, belt inspections and replacement, spark plug replacement.
Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures for common and uncommon issues across all major vehicle systems.
Repair Procedures:
Step-by-step instructions for component removal, installation, and adjustment for engine, transmission, suspension, brakes, and electrical systems.
Overhaul Procedures:
Complete rebuild procedures for engine, transmission, and differential.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes:
Explanation of diagnostic codes and their interpretation, along with troubleshooting steps.
Depth Level:
Comprehensive: Covers basic maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds. Suitable for professional mechanics and advanced DIYers.
Transmission Type Std:
5-speed Manual (Getrag 260/5)
Transmission Type Opt:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)
Clutch Type:
Hydraulically Actuated Single Dry Plate
Manual Transmission Fluid:
BMW Manual Transmission Fluid (e.g., Castrol SAF-XJ or equivalent GL-4/GL-5)
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
ZF Lifeguardfluid 6 (or compatible ATF DEXRON-III equivalent)
Crash Test Data:
Limited specific public crash test data for this era and model. BMW's safety cage and crumple zones were advanced for their time.
ABS:
Anti-lock Braking System (standard on later models, optional or unavailable on early 1988 models depending on market).
Airbags:
Driver-side airbag (optional, standard on some later E34 models).
Seatbelts:
Three-point front seatbelts with pretensioners, three-point rear seatbelts.
Chassis Design:
Integrated safety cell, energy-absorbing steering column, reinforced A and B pillars.
Audio System:
Optional premium sound systems from Blaupunkt or Harman Kardon. Cassette tape player was standard.
Climate Control:
Manual or automatic climate control systems available, often with dual-zone capabilities.
Cruise Control:
Standard on most models for maintaining speed.
On Board Computer:
Optional 'Check Control' system for monitoring vehicle status and fluid levels.
Connectivity Features:
Limited by era, primarily analog systems. No modern Bluetooth or USB connectivity.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 7,500-10,000 miles (12,000-16,000 km) or annually. Consult manual for specific BMW recommendations.
Coolant Change Interval:
Every 2 years or as per manual recommendations (often silicate-free coolant).
Brake Fluid Change Interval:
Every 2 years.
Engine Oil Type:
API SG or higher, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 (depending on climate). BMW recommends synthetic or semi-synthetic oils.
Engine Oil Capacity:
6.5 Liters (6.9 US Quarts) with filter.
Coolant Type:
BMW Blue Antifreeze/Coolant (G48 specification or equivalent)
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron III or CHF 11S (verify application for E34 models)
Cooling System:
Plastic coolant reservoir cracking, radiator leaks, thermostat housing leaks, heater control valve failures are common.
Electrical Gremlins:
Age-related issues with wiring harnesses, connector corrosion, ABS sensor failures, and dashboard warning lights.
Suspension Wear:
Worn control arm bushings, ball joints, and rear shock mounts leading to poor handling and noise.
Fuel System:
Fuel pump failures, clogged fuel injectors, and aging fuel lines.
Exhaust System:
Corrosion and leaks in the exhaust manifold and piping due to age and environment.
Bmw Legacy:
BMW, Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, has a long history of producing premium, performance-oriented vehicles.
E34 Introduction:
The E34 generation of the 5 Series was introduced in 1987 (for the 1988 model year in North America), succeeding the E28.
E34 Design:
Known for its clean, aerodynamic design penned by Claus Luthe, it represented a significant styling evolution from its predecessor.
Production Years E34:
1987-1996
Manufacturing Locations:
Mainly Dingolfing, Germany; also plants in South Africa, Mexico, and Austria.
